Tucho’s Marian Document Leans on Selective Citations and Neglects the Magisterial Tradition
The use of the title "Co-Redemptrix"
Tucho stated that the title "Co-Redemptrix" is "not appropriate," despite its historical use by numerous popes. Miravalle questions whether this implies that past popes and many saints used an improper title.
Tucho's document concludes that the title is allegedly "inappropriate" due to the need to often "re-explain" it.
Miravalle comments: "Other Marian titles, such as 'Immaculate Conception' and 'Mother of God,' have likewise required ongoing explanation and re-explanation. Yet these titles remain, as do other Catholic dogmas, such as 'Papal Infallibility,' 'Original Sin,' and 'Transubstantiation.'"
Our Lady as Mediatrix of All Graces
Miravalle explains that the Papal Magisterium has consistently taught the doctrine of Mary’s role as “Mediatrix of All Graces” for the last four centuries, both in title and in explanation.
Pope Leo XIV used the title on August 15, 2025.
Miravalle finds it "disconcerting and confusing" that Tucho's document contains several references that seem to suggest Our Lady does not play a secondary role alongside Christ in the universal dispensation of redemptive grace.
He is also surprised that the Papal Magisterium's treatment of the Mediatrix of All Graces from the 18th to 21st centuries is absent from Tucho’s document.
Inconsistency in Cited Sources
Miravalle explains that Tucho’s use of magisterial references “appears inconsistent and, at times, lacks objectivity and parity.”
For example, Francis's extemporaneous comments during homilies or audiences (not found in the written texts) are quoted in full, while John Paul II’s references to the Co-redemptrix during papal homilies and addresses, accompanied by an extended explanation (e.g., the 1985 homily in Guayaquil on January 31), are not included in the text nor quoted in the footnotes. Pius XI, in his November 30, 1933 address, provides an excellent explanation of the Co-redemptrix title; however, it was not included in the document either.”
Miravalle uncovers another disparity in the references to Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger. As a cardinal, he expressed reservations about the title in 1996, some 30 years ago: "As pope, he never explicitly spoke against it. Referencing private interviews of Cardinal Ratzinger against the Co-redemptrix title while not referencing papal statements using the title lacks objectivity, which is crucial in this discussion.
Role of the Faithful and Synodal Process
Finally, Miravalle emphasizes the importance of consulting the faithful. He points to widespread global support for the rejected Marian titles.
"May the full synodal process championed by Pope Leo and the Holy See be genuinely and comprehensively implemented in guiding the Church's discernment on this quintessential Marian subject."
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